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Coming out of the closet is good for a gay person's health — at least, if they're Canadian.

A new study out of Montreal's Louis H. Lafontaine Hospital found gay and bisexual people who have told others about their sexual orientation show fewer symptoms of anxiety, depression and burnout.

But the study, which questioned and measured stress hormones in 87 gay or bisexual Montrealers, may have a regional bias.

"Coming out might only be beneficial for health when there are tolerant social policies that facilitate the disclosure process" lead author Robert-Paul Juster said.

"As the participants of this study enjoy progressive Canadian rights, they may be inherently healthier and hardier.

"Coming out is no longer a matter of popular debate but a matter of public health. Internationally, societies must endeavour to facilitate this self-acceptance by promoting tolerance, progressing policy, and dispelling stigma for all minorities."